ELTBefore Proposal

Book Proposal: "Before the Beginning"

Author: R.C. Jones

Working Title: Before the Beginning

Overview: "Before the Beginning" is an insightful exploration into the foundational elements of the Hebrew language (pun, riddle and word formation) and their profound implications for biblical interpretation. By delving into the meanings behind Hebrew letters and words, the book offers readers a deeper understanding of scriptural texts, enhancing their spiritual journey and connection to the divine.

Target Audience:

• Christians seeking a deeper understanding of biblical texts.
• Students and scholars of theology and biblical studies.
• Individuals interested in the Hebrew language and its significance in scripture.

Unique Selling Proposition: This book stands out by combining linguistic analysis with spiritual insights, making complex Hebrew concepts accessible to a broad audience. It bridges the gap between academic study and personal faith, providing readers with tools to enrich their scriptural understanding.

Chapter Outline:

   Introduction
       Overview of the significance of Hebrew pun, riddle and word formations in biblical texts.
       Importance of understanding the language as a little child for deeper scriptural insight.

   Message Before Creation
       Exploration of the divine messages embedded in the Hebrew language prior to creation called "the mystery hidden before the beginning" by Paul.

   Word Formations
       Analysis of how Hebrew words are formed and their deeper meanings.

   Father (אב)
       Understanding the concept of 'Father' in Hebrew and its biblical implications.

   Elohim (אלהים)
       Examination of the term 'Elohim' and its significance in scripture.

   Israel (ישראל)
       Insights into the meaning of 'Israel' and its role in biblical narratives.

   Married (לקח)
       Exploration of the concept of marriage in Hebrew and its spiritual symbolism.

   Bride (כלה)
       Understanding the term 'Bride' and its theological implications.

   Saved (ישע)
       Analysis of the concept of salvation in Hebrew.

   Worship (נשתחוה)
       Examination of the term 'Worship' and its significance in the Hebrew context.

   Letter Formations
       Detailed study of individual Hebrew letters and their meanings.

   Aleph (א)
       Insights into the first Hebrew letter and its symbolic significance.

   Bet (ב)
       Understanding the second Hebrew letter and its implications.

   Gimel (ג)
       Exploration of the third Hebrew letter and its meanings.

   Dalet (ד)
       Analysis of the fourth Hebrew letter and its significance.

   Hei (ה)
       Examination of the fifth Hebrew letter and its implications.

   Vav (ו)
       Insights into the sixth Hebrew letter and its meanings.

   Zayin (ז)
       Understanding the seventh Hebrew letter and its significance.

   Chet (ח)
       Exploration of the eighth Hebrew letter and its implications.

   Tov (ט)
       Analysis of the ninth Hebrew letter and its meanings.

   Yod (י)
       Examination of the tenth Hebrew letter and its significance.

   Kaf (כ)
       Insights into the eleventh Hebrew letter and its implications.

   Lamed (ל)
       Understanding the twelfth Hebrew letter and its meanings.

   Mem (מ)
       Exploration of the thirteenth Hebrew letter and its significance.

   Nun (נ)
       Analysis of the fourteenth Hebrew letter and its implications.

   Samech (ס)
       Examination of the fifteenth Hebrew letter and its meanings.

   Ayin (ע)
       Insights into the sixteenth Hebrew letter and its significance.

   Pei (פ)
       Understanding the seventeenth Hebrew letter and its implications.

   Tsadi (צ)
       Exploration of the eighteenth Hebrew letter and its meanings.

   Qof (ק)
       Analysis of the nineteenth Hebrew letter and its significance.

   Resh (ר)
       Examination of the twentieth Hebrew letter and its implications.

   Shin (ש)
       Insights into the twenty-first Hebrew letter and its meanings.

   Tov (ת)
       Understanding the twenty-second Hebrew letter and its significance.

   Final Forms
       Study of the final forms of certain Hebrew letters and their implications.

   Final Kaf (ך)
       Exploration of the final form of Kaf and its meanings.

   Final Mem (ם)
       Analysis of the final form of Mem and its significance.

   Final Nun (ן)
       Examination of the final form of Nun and its implications.

   Final Pei (ף)
       Insights into the final form of Pei and its meanings.

   Final Tsadi (ץ)
       Understanding the final form of Tsadi and its significance.

   Final Shin
       Exploration of the final form of Shin and its implications.

Author Bio: R.C. Jones is a dedicated evangelist with a passion for biblical studies and the Hebrew language. With years of experience in theological research, evangelism and teaching, he brings a unique perspective that combines hermeneutic rigor with spiritual depth.

Market Analysis: There is a growing interest among Christians to delve deeper into the original languages of the Bible to enhance their understanding of scripture. This book caters to that desire by providing accessible insights into pre-600 A.D. Hebrew, making it a valuable resource for both personal study and academic reference.

Marketing and Promotion:

• Speaking Engagements: Teaching evangelism in churches, as well as Hebrew zoom classes for interested pastors and students around the world.
• Online Presence: Not a very good web site: 2ndBook.org

Comparable Titles (however different foundations):

   "The Hebrew Alphabet: A Mystical Journey" by Edward Hoffman
   "Hebrew Word Study: Revealing the Heart of God" by Chaim Bentorah

Submission Details: Per Zondervan's submission guidelines, I have included "Zondervan Reflective" in the subject line of this proposal. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how "Before the Beginning" can contribute to Zondervan's mission of providing transformative and inspirational Christian content.

Thank you for considering this proposal. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

R.C. Jones bob@2ndBook.org (801)230-2254

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Book Proposal: "Before the Beginning"

Author: [Author's Name]

Proposed Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press (WJK) Title and Subtitle

Before the Beginning: Exploring the Foundations of Faith in the Hebrew Alphabet Book Description

"Before the Beginning" takes readers on a theological and linguistic journey, unraveling the profound meanings encoded in the Hebrew alphabet and its implications for biblical interpretation. The book examines the deeper connections between the Hebrew language and Christian theology, emphasizing how each letter and word reveals divine truths and enriches our understanding of scripture.

The work uniquely bridges traditional exegesis with contemporary Christian practice, inviting readers into a fresh engagement with the Bible’s ancient languages as a pathway to spiritual growth. Audience

The book is targeted at:

   Ministers, theologians, and seminary students seeking deeper linguistic and theological resources.
   Educated lay readers interested in the intersection of language, faith, and scripture.
   Faith communities looking to deepen their biblical understanding and liturgical life.

This audience aligns with WJK’s focus on works that contribute to theological reflection, ministerial formation, and scholarly dialogue. Market Need

In a time of growing interest in biblical languages and their implications for faith and practice, "Before the Beginning" addresses a need for accessible yet deeply theological resources. While many books discuss Hebrew vocabulary, this work focuses on the letters themselves and their symbolic and theological dimensions, making it uniquely positioned within the current landscape of biblical studies. Chapter Summary

   Introduction: Before Words
       Why the Hebrew alphabet matters for faith.
       An introduction to how letters and words function as theological symbols.

   The Message Before Creation
       Unpacking how the Hebrew language encodes divine intention and theological truths prior to creation narratives.

   Father (אב) and Elohim (אלהים)
       Exploring foundational theological terms and their broader implications.

   Israel (ישראל): A Name of Struggle and Hope
       The meaning of 'Israel' as a name, identity, and theological marker.

   Bride (כלה) and Worship (נשתחוה)
       The covenantal and liturgical dimensions of key Hebrew terms.

   Theological Alphabet: Letter by Letter
       A detailed examination of each Hebrew letter, including:
           Aleph (א): The first cause.
           Bet (ב): The house of God.
           Shin (ש): Divine presence.
           ...and so forth, exploring each letter's theological and symbolic significance.

   The Final Forms: Completion and Fulfillment
       The deeper meanings of letters in their "final" forms and their implications for biblical interpretation.

   Conclusion: From Word to Worship
       Synthesizing the study of letters and words into a vision for living out faith today.

Author Bio

[Author's Name] is a seasoned theologian and educator with a passion for connecting biblical languages to everyday faith. A longtime advocate for deepening the church’s engagement with scripture, [he/she] has [academic qualifications, teaching experience, and/or published works relevant to the topic]. Competitive Titles and Unique Contribution

Competitive Titles:

   "The Wisdom of the Hebrew Alphabet" by Michael L. Munk (ArtScroll Publications)
   "Hebrew Word Study: Revealing the Heart of God" by Chaim Bentorah (Whitaker House)

Unique Contribution: Unlike other works that focus on vocabulary or mystical interpretations, "Before the Beginning" integrates linguistic analysis with theological reflection, offering practical insights for readers looking to deepen their faith through scripture. Marketing and Promotion Plan

   Speaking Engagements: Offer lectures and workshops in churches, seminaries, and faith-based conferences.
   Online Presence:
       Dedicated website featuring sample chapters, video content, and downloadable resources.
       Social media campaign focusing on Hebrew word/letter studies.
   Collaborations: Work with seminaries, theological schools, and faith-based organizations to promote the book as a resource for study groups and curriculum development.
   Cross-Promotions: Partner with clergy and faith leaders to incorporate insights into worship, teaching, and sermon preparation.

Manuscript Information

   Estimated Length: 60,000–80,000 words.
   Completion Status: [Draft in progress or completed manuscript available upon request.]
   Delivery Date: [Insert timeline for manuscript completion, if applicable.]

Conclusion

"Before the Beginning" aligns with WJK’s mission of fostering theological education and reflection for the church and academy. This book promises to equip readers with a deeper understanding of scripture, enrich their spiritual lives, and inspire greater engagement with biblical languages as a vital tool for faith formation.

Thank you for considering this proposal. I look forward to discussing how "Before the Beginning" can contribute to WJK’s publishing program.

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]